Freshfields Advises M&G on Dai-ichi Partnership.
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has advised M&G plc on a new long-term strategic partnership with Dai-ichi Life Holdings, Japan’s largest listed life insurer.
As part of the agreement, Dai-ichi will acquire a roughly 15% stake in M&G, aligning the two firms for future collaboration across asset management and life insurance.
Under the terms of the deal, M&G will become Dai-ichi’s preferred asset management partner in Europe. The partnership will focus on expanding distribution, developing new products, and driving growth across both companies.
Over the next five years, the alliance is expected to channel approximately $6 billion into M&G-managed funds, with at least half directed toward M&G’s high-alpha strategies across public and private markets.
Tetsuya Kikuta, President and CEO of Dai-ichi Life Holdings, said:
“Dai-ichi Life Holdings is delighted to enter into a strategic alliance with M&G, a highly regarded global player in the insurance and asset management industries, to collaborate and develop capabilities together in multiple areas, especially in Europe.”
Andrea Rossi, CEO of M&G, added:
“The strategic partnership with Dai-ichi Life Holdings and the associated c.15% investment is recognition of M&G’s strengths and clear confidence in our leadership, strategy and long-term prospects.”
“It will enable us to further capitalise on the significant private market opportunities across Europe and enable even greater access to the Japanese and Asian market where we will benefit from Dai-ichi Life Holdings market-leading expertise.”
M&G’s in-house legal team was led by General Counsel Charlotte Heiss, along with Group Legal Director Robyn Butler-Mason and M&A Legal Counsel Georgina Burrow.
The Freshfields team advising on the deal included M&A partners Claire Wills and Michael Black, with partner Piers Prichard Jones.
They were supported by senior associate Bethan Rodden and associates Ciara Cosgrave and Miya Modhvadia. Regulatory and competition matters were handled by partners Martin McElwee and James Smethurst.
M&G plc is a leading savings and investment company with a long-term outlook, dedicated to helping individuals grow and manage their savings. With a heritage dating back over 170 years, M&G has consistently sought to democratize wealth by making financial products accessible to a broader audience. The company offers a diverse range of asset management capabilities, providing customers with various savings and investment solutions tailored to their risk appetite. M&G's purpose is to give everyone real confidence to put their money to work, combining asset management expertise with capital management to align solutions with customer needs.
Freshfields is a global law firm with nearly 300 years of experience, renowned for partnering with industry leaders to navigate complex legal challenges and seize opportunities. With over 5,700 professionals across 33 offices worldwide, the firm offers deep expertise in areas such as M&A, antitrust, litigation, and regulatory matters. Freshfields is committed to responsible business practices, including pro bono work, community engagement, and environmental sustainability. The firm fosters a culture of inclusion and collaboration, empowering its people to thrive and deliver exceptional client service.
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